Grindelwald, nestled in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, is a gateway to some of the country’s most breath taking alpine lakes.
These high-altitude gems offer panoramic views, mirror-like waters, and unforgettable hiking experiences – especially in autumn, when the landscape glows with golden larch and crisp mountain air.
Bachalpsee: the postcard lake
Arguably the most photographed lake in the region, Bachalpsee sits at 2,265 metres above sea level and is famed for its glassy surface reflecting the snow-capped peaks of the Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn. To reach it, take the gondola from Grindelwald to First, then hike an easy 6 km round trip along a wide, stroller-friendly path. The walk takes about an hour each way and is ideal from late June to mid-October. Autumn adds a painterly touch, with fiery foliage and fewer crowds. Pack a picnic – the lakeside benches offer one of the best lunch views in the Alps.
Faulhorn Summit Lake: wild and panoramic
Beyond Bachalpsee, the trail continues steeply to Faulhorn, a 19th-century mountain hut perched at 2,681 metres. Near the summit, a smaller unnamed lake lies tucked into the rocky terrain, offering a wilder, more dramatic setting. The full hike from First to Faulhorn and back takes around 4–5 hours and is best suited to experienced hikers. The reward? Sweeping views over Lake Brienz, the Jungfrau massif, and a sense of alpine solitude that’s hard to match. Go between July and early October for clear skies and safe trail conditions.
Lake Eiger: hidden beneath the North Face
Less known but no less impressive, Lake Eiger (Eigersee) is a small glacial lake tucked near Alpiglen, directly beneath the formidable north face of the Eiger – one of Europe’s most iconic and feared climbing walls. Accessible via the Eiger Trail, a moderate hike from Eigergletscher station to Alpiglen, the lake offers a moment of quiet amid grandeur. Its modest size belies its cinematic presence: the still waters mirror the sheer limestone wall above, a face immortalised in mountaineering lore and films such as “The Eiger Sanction”. Late summer and early autumn bring the clearest skies and best trail conditions, when the light sharpens and the air carries a hint of alpine chill. It’s a place where solitude meets spectacle, ideal for hikers seeking reflection, photographers chasing drama, or travellers drawn to the mythic pull of the mountains.
For those seeking high-end accommodation near Grindelwald’s iconic lakes, the region offers several refined options that pair alpine charm with luxury comfort. The Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel is a standout, with panoramic mountain views, a spa, and elegant dining — ideal for travellers who want wellness and sophistication in one place. Bergwelt Grindelwald – Alpine Design Resort brings contemporary flair to the mountains, offering sleek interiors, a rooftop spa, and curated experiences tailored to discerning guests. For timeless Swiss hospitality, the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort blends rustic warmth with modern amenities
Grindelwald’s lakes deliver a rare blend of accessibility and awe when the colours fade to frost and the silence deepens beneath their snow-dusted peaks.